Bam: Go out and register for Barangay, SK polls

Date: July 29, 2016

1746 Views

Go out and register.

Sen. Bam Aquino urges qualified individuals to register for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections before the non-extendible July 30 deadline set by the Commission on Elections (Comelec), stressing this is an opportunity to effect change in their communities.

Sen. Bam issued the call after the Comelec announced that it will not extend the registration period for the Barangay and SK elections.

The SK Reform Act is the first legislation with an anti-dynasty provision as it prohibits relatives of elected officials up to 2nd civil degree of consanguinity or affinity from seeking SK posts.

Aside from its anti-dynasty provision, the new law adjusts age limit of SK officials from 15-17 to 18-24 years old, making them legally capable of entering into contracts and be held accountable and liable for their actions.

Sangguniang Kabataan officials will now be required to undergo leadership training programs to expose them to the best practices in governance and guide their development as leaders.

The new law also mandates the creation of the Local Youth Development Council (LYDC), a council that will support the SK and ensure the participation of more youth through youth organizations.

The LYDC will be composed of representatives from the different youth organizations in the community – student councils, church and youth faith groups, youth-serving organizations, and community-based youth groups.